Multi-component Soft Materials Advanced Research Training Network

MultiSMART, Multi-component Soft Materials Advanced Research Training Network, is a Doctoral Network of six Universities, one private nonprofit Research Institute, two large Companies and an SME, involving training, fundamental research and applications in the field of molecular soft materials. These have substantial societal and economic impact, but require innovation to ensure sustainable development. The primary research objectives are defined as (i) the innovation in soft materials through multi-component self-assemblies; (ii) the application of these materials in the formulation of actives with elevated performance in the large-scale industries of personal care and home care, as well as high-added value regenerative therapies. Multi-component systems based on low molecular weight gelators have considerable potential to achieve these goals with the key advantages of programmability and responsiveness. However, their development hinges upon the formation of an inter-disciplinary network with well-trained researchers. MultiSMART proposes: (1) the training of the future generation of researchers; (2) the tight integration between academic projects and private sector needs; (3) a network-wide, seamless multidisciplinary, international and inter-sectoral training that is not available at any one institution. MultiSMART will be formed around 9 hired researchers who will have the opportunity to become scientists employable in both the industrial and academic sectors. In an integrated approach, they will be trained to bridge the gap between chemistry, physics, biology and formulation technology, as well as to acquire transferable skills through their research and specifically designed network-wide schools and workshops. The participation of three industrial participants in research and training programmes will guarantee extensive inter-sectoral experience for the trainees and maximise the impact of the network.